Fake Life Behind the Numbers
Social media was originally created to connect people, share ideas, and unite the world. However, today it has become a powerful platform that significantly affects human psychology. Every day, millions of people showcase the most beautiful moments of their lives online, while others compare these “perfect” scenes to their own lives, quietly feeling inadequate.
According to global statistics, there are 5.24 billion social media users, who spend an average of 2 hours and 21 minutes per day on these platforms. Over the course of a year, this amounts to almost 34 days—essentially dedicating a month of life to virtual existence. The most concerning part is that a large portion of this time often pulls people into a spiral of self-doubt, envy, and loneliness.
In recent years, these negative consequences have become evident through numerous real-life examples. For instance, the famous blogger Anastasiya Tropitsel frequently showcased a luxurious lifestyle, travel, and expensive cars, attracting admiration from millions of young followers. Yet in 2020, she tragically passed away in Bali. Later reports revealed that Anastasiya had long struggled with depression but concealed her struggles to maintain the “happy persona” online. This tragedy exposed the psychological pain hidden behind the virtual life.
At its core, this problem stems from natural human needs—the desire for recognition, attention, and validation. Social media amplifies this feeling, turning it into a system measured by “likes.” People begin to evaluate themselves by numbers: more views, more comments, more followers—almost as if their value depends solely on these metrics. Consequently, genuine emotions, sincerity, and inner peace diminish, replaced by artificial standards of life.
The solution begins with changing one’s mindset. First, it is crucial to develop a culture of healthy boundaries with social media. This does not mean abandoning it entirely, but using it purposefully and in moderation. Everyone should learn to compare themselves not to others online, but to their past selves. Additionally, educational institutions should introduce lessons on digital literacy and information awareness, while promoting mental well-being and self-esteem among young people.
Social media connects us to the world, but it often distances us from ourselves. We live amidst hundreds of photos, videos, and “perfect” lives every day, yet the most important thing—inner peace—seems increasingly lost. I have realized that true happiness does not lie in “likes,” but in sincere conversations, genuine emotions, and moments spent with loved ones.
Life is given to be lived, not to be shown. Therefore, we should focus less on the fake brilliance behind screens and more on our real lives. Only then can a person preserve their true self, and only then does life truly gain meaning.
NARZULLOYEVA MUNISA BAKHROMOVNA was born on August 13th, 2006, in Surxandarya region, Sariasia district of the Republic of Uzbekistan. She is currently studying in her second year at the Faculty of Journalism. She has accomplished a lot of achievements. For instance: her articles were published in Germany’s “Raven Cage” and Kenya’s “Mt. Kenya Times” international magazines. Additionally, her articles were published twice on the official website of “Synchronized Chaos” and have been indexed on Google. Also, she is a member of the “All India Council of Technical Skill Development” and a member of “Global Education Ambassador”.